NSAC Bans TRT; Could Mean The End For Vitor Belfort

By Jeremy Green

Jason da Silva-USA TODAY Sports

One of the most controversial topics in MMA over the past several years has been the use of TRT, otherwise known as testosterone replacement therapy. Fighters using it say they need it because of their low testosterone levels, which is backed up by doctors. However, it seems like this type of therapy only lets fighters train longer, and their bodies seem to recover better.

In short, it’s a way of cheating. But this will never be a problem again, as NSAC has issued a statewide ban on TRT. Fighters won’t have access to TRT anymore, including UFC middleweight Vitor Belfort.

Belfort, one of the most prominent figures for TRT use, has been able to turn his career around as of late. Ever since taking TRT, he’s been able to string together three straight wins, all of which were by way of TKO/KO. Was this due to TRT or Vitor’s ability to develop as a fighter despite being 36? This remains to be seen, but at least now fans and media won’t have to speculate anymore.

This ruling by the NSAC is a great thing for mixed martial arts, just like the banning of steroids was for MLB. Hopefully, this news bodes well for the future of the sport, and that testing will only get stricter going forward. This will clean up the sport, ensuring fighters are playing by the rules and are not trying to gain a competitive edge illegally against their opponents.

Now the question remains: will Vitor still fight Chris Weidman at UFC 173? Belfort has been using TRT for a while now, so he may not be able to compete against Weidman since it might still be in his system come fight time. If Belfort is forced out of the bout, it doesn’t bode well for his future. He may not be able to train like he used to, causing him to hang up the gloves once and for all.